Nawailevu bauxite mining site in Fiji sails on a sustainable path

The inhabitants of Fiji's Nawailevu village in Bua have started a project to assist in rehabilitating the land utilised for bauxite mining over the last decade. This is accomplished by establishing a sustainable landscape plot planted with fruits, vegetables, root crops, and trees.

Vilikesa Kaidawa, a spokesperson, said that the programme would raise the standard of living for both their current and future generations.

“The aim is to teach us sustainable management of land. Especially for the iTaukei, as we are used to cultivation for consumption. This initiative aims to help provide food on the table and earn a living for families. The sustainable landscape plot will entirely benefit the villagers.”

Kaidawa added, "Because the sustainable landscape plot is entirely organic, it will help lower carbon emissions and lessen the effects of climate change."

The village has agreed to 15 acres of land for this project. The community has collaborated on the initiative with the Ministry of Agriculture, Live and Learn, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification and other organisations.

From 2011 until 2018, Xinfa Aurum Exploration Fiji Limited leased 165 acres of land held by Nawailevu Village in Bua to mine bauxite.